For his opponents, it was simply impossible to keep up and deal with the hard-hitting competitiveness of Albe
rini. It was his best performance yet, despite he also a very aggressive competitor in the Melges 32 class and has raced this venue many times before.

Alberini’s long-time tactician Gabriele Benussi, delivered a performance that featured not the slightest imperfection. He always seemed to have Alberini in the right place at the right time, adding to the team’s great boat speed, handling and really good starts. Two firsts, three second place finishes and an eleventh (that was discarded as his worst score) now makes him a big target and certainly one of the many teams in full contention to track down the crown and win the 2010 Audi Melges 20 Gold Cup Regatta. With this near perfect performance in Riva Del Garda, Alberini is only two points behind current leader Benedetto Giallongo on Value Team.

Giallongo, based on his many previous successes was considered a favorite to do well in Riva, however only managed to finish fifth, but still maintains the lead in the overall series standing.

Francesco Farnetti’s Reggini Sailing Team with tactician Branko Brcin finished in second place, four points behind Alberini. Although considered a rookie, he has by far been one of the most solid performing teams on the circuit, especially after his big debut win in Lerici.

Rounding out the top three, was Fausto Rubbini’s Thule with Mauro Mocchegiani at the helm and tactician Matteo Ivaldi. Alessandro Molla’s Spring Sailing Team finished fourth.

The next Audi Melges 20 event happens in Malcesine on July 22-25 — the very first Audi Melges 20 Gold Cup Regatta.